Is it really possible to have better dental hygiene for free?
This is a question that may seem silly at first, but it really helps answer many other questions. Most people have the basics for dental upkeep as far as tools go. However, a lot of people do not have the proper knowledge of how to use them and are surprised to discover when they have a cavity. A big secret to taking great care of your mouth is to remember that oral health is more influenced by what is happening outside of brushing. In fact, most dental hygiene products in stores are total ripoffs. It is not our fault that big name dental creates and tirelessly markets products with minimal research and dirt cheap ingredients. The main reason they exist is to make them profit while saving you money. For example, many toothpastes contain gelatin (same type of ingredient as in Jello). Gelatin can actually coat the surface of teeth making it more difficult for saliva to get to and clean surfaces of the enamel. If a toothpaste does not contain gelatin it likely has one of the three abrasives; silica, bone or chalk. There are actually many ways that you can have great dental hygiene for zero, yes $0 zero dollars. In fact, it could be said that most people actually buy their way into cavities.
The wrong way to approach dental health can take many forms. One example would be drinking a soda and then falling asleep immediately afterwards. Soda contains a lot of sugar, in fact if you happen to spill just one drop it will dry to a sticky sap in moments. It can be logically stated that restaurant soda likely contains less sugar than canned soda. The reason for this being that restaurant soda is often watered down either because it is mixed or because of added ice. Nonetheless, another example of detrimental dental hygiene would be eating a processed food ( crackers, cookies, etc. ) while having a cavity. Depending on the size of the cavity, food can clog that area and cause accelerated decay. This often results in an abundance of bacterial activity in that area. For these reasons, it is important to keep teeth free from any food particles and/or sugary residues.
Now that we have discussed some of the wrong ways to care for dental health we can begin to look at some of the right ways to care for teeth. One of the most important things a person can do to help slow down cavities is to have a good mouth environment. A healthy mouth environment could be considered as having many different qualities. One of the main qualities here is hydration. Drinking water and keeping the body hydrated helps keep the mouth producing saliva. Saliva is a natural carrier for calcium and helps to naturally cleanse the mouth while promoting a great PH in the mouth. Keeping the mouth hydrated is easily one of the most overlooked ways to have great dental hygiene. Another often overlooked way to keep cavities at bay is by changing the intervals of when you eat. In many ways, it is better to eat simpler foods and brush one time a day than to eat processed foods many times a day and brush after every sitting. The logic behind this being that saliva is most beneficial to teeth when it is allowed to wash around in the mouth uninterrupted for some time.
Equally as important as saliva PH, another way to have great dental hygiene for free would be to find free samples. Many times a dental floss manufacturer will offer free sample of dental floss. In fact, doing a simple web search for ‘free dental floss’ landed me on a great offer from Oral-B that is good through the end of the month. This is a great way to accomplish the important task of flossing when on a budget. There are also many other offers that a manufacturer may offer such as toothbrushes, mouthwashes etc. Another thing you could try would be boldly walking into a dentists office and asking if they have any dental floss samples or trial packets. Equally as important as flossing, brushing is perhaps the foundation when it comes to having great dental hygiene. One way you can brush without a toothbrush is by using paper towel folded into a square. On top of it you could add a small amount of toothpaste or baking soda if you have some around. The key here is to remove any built-up plaque that may be resting on the surface of teeth.
In conclusion, there are many ways a person can have great hygiene for little to no cost at all. One of the most important things a person can do is drink plenty of water while eating less processed foods as a part of a daily diet. In all, when you know these helpful tips for better dental hygiene, there is no excuse when it comes to having great oral health.
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The holidays are a busy time when it is especially important to have good dental hygiene. Sometimes one is so wrapped up in family gatherings that it is easy to forget other things that are just as or even more important. From Halloween to New Years it is especially important to be proactive in keeping up with dental hygiene. For this reason it is very useful to know a few dental maintenance tips for the holidays. First and foremost it is advised that one watch the liquids that are consumed. Often times at holiday dinners, there will be a cooler or fridge full of sodas, juice cocktails, and sweet tea. Water is typically at the bottom of the list when it comes to everyone’sfavorite beverages. Not surprisingly, plain water is often so overlooked that one finds the need to draw from the tap. Water is good because it keeps you hydrated, this helps the mouth to naturally clean itself and to have a really good PH. One good tip I once heard was, always drink two parts of water for every one part of soda, tea, etc. This is so that you will both stay adequately hydrated, and reduce desires for sweet drinks.
Equally as important as staying hydrated, sweets are an item that is abundant and just about mandatory for any proper holiday get together. Pumpkin pie, pecan pie, homemade fudge, you name it. Desserts are often even more emphasized than the main dish at holiday parties. The consistency of these sweets however, is often what makes them a hazard to enamel. For example, pies and cookies both have a texture to them that is sticky and gooey. This will cause the food to get stuck on crowns and in between teeth easily where they are not easily moved away. When one is done eating, it is advised to have a glass of water and swig it around a few times. If you’d like to take even more precaution, you might could chew a piece of xylitol gum to get an extra clean feeling.
Last but not least, there is one final thing you can do for good dental health during the holidays. That is to make sure your mouth is clean before going to bed. Sleep often last for many hours at a time. During this time the mouth can be in either a remineralization like state or a demineralization like state. The first state is acquired by having a clean mouth, and by being adequately hydrated. The second one demineralization, is one in which acids from foods and bacteria are left to sit throughout the night. This will very much increase chances of causing cavities and is the very stuff dental caries are made of. This holiday season remember that going to bed sufficiently hydrated and with a clean mouth is especially important for good dental health. The holidays are a best-ever time to have good memories with family and enjoy a variety of great foods. While it is a great joy to share these foods and enjoy them, you do not want to share them with dental bacteria. They will digest the food and leave the corrosive byproduct known as lactic acid. Follow these dental tips this holiday season and you will indeed insure great dental health for many holidays to come.
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Dental implants make it possible to replace any cavity affected tooth. Thanks to this dental innovation, cavities need not be something set in stone. With dental implants, you have all the functionality of a natural tooth with none of the cavity. Dental implants offer reassurance and a glimmer of hope for those who suffer with un-repairable cavities.
To start, we begin by exploring the humble beginnings of the dental implant. It all started in 1952, when a surgeon by the name of Per-Ingvar Branemark was running research efforts to study blood flow in bone. In one of his experiments, Branemark placed a titanium chamber inside of a sample of bone. Much to his surprise, when Branemark later went to remove the titanium chamber, he found that it had fused with the bone. Today, this fusion process is known as osseointegration. Titanium is a corrosive-resistant metal that can also be found in body piercings, sunscreen, and jewelry. It makes an ideal implant post as it is strong, non-toxic and as mentioned, capable of fusing with bone. One reason for its widely accepted application in bone is that it forms a protective oxide film in exposure to oxygen. The artificial crowns placed atop of these titanium rods can be made of anything from pure gold to porcelain.
In the initial visits regarding dental implants, a dental professional will inventory a part of the head known as the stomato-gnathic area. The word stomato refers to mouth, while the word gnathic refers to jaws. This assessment is done via x-rays and visual inspection by your dentist. The area is surveyed to determine bone strength and overall capacity for retaining implants. In addition to this, the dental professional will verify that no other infections are present which may compromise surgery. Dental insurances typically cover less than ten percent of dental implant services. Health Insurance is a better bet for obtaining coverage for these costly procedures. To provide a ballpark estimate for costs involved, titanium rods are commonly listed at $400 to $950 while the abutment ( or middle part connecting rod and crown ) are about $250 to $500 dollars. Lastly, the crown is the most costly of all ranging anywhere from $1000 to $3000 dollars. The services performed by your dentist are also a major factor in regard to the prices. You are paying not only for the implants themselves, but also for the trained dental professional who becomes familiar with your unique situation.
Another factor playing into the price tag is dental implants require a wide range of resources outside of the dental clinic. Dental implants require multiple dental professionals throughout the processes of manufacture, installation and maintenance. The first person, a dental laboratory technician, is responsible for the physical production of the crown. Next, a restorative dentist is responsible for the planning and setting in place of the crowns created in the laboratory. Lastly a periodontist, or oral surgeon, is responsible for the surgical installation of the titanium posts. Dental implants require attentive care as the titanium posts can be affected by an infection unique to them, known as peri-implantitus. This condition can rapidly degenerate bone around the implant leading to the loss of bone and rod foundation. This makes meticulous dental hygiene all the more important. If the titanium rod is visible it should be addressed as soon as possible. Being able to see the titanium rod means the gum has receded and an infection could be underway. Scrupulous oral hygiene combined with routine dental appointments are vital for avoiding situations like this. By and large, dental implants are a safe and effective choice when it comes to tooth replacement. Unlike similar dental procedures, implants need not depend on nearby teeth for foundation. In combination with this, crowns can be switched out when necessary, thus eliminating many of the hassles that come with maintaining natural teeth. With proper maintenance, dental implants have the capacity to last a lifetime.
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A diet high in sugar, refined processed foods and acids expose one to a greater risk of developing tooth decay. One interesting thing to note is that there are over five hundred types of bacteria that inhabit in the mouth. Bacteria are best controlled when deprived of some of their main sources of food. With this in mind, it is generally a good idea to ensure that food particles are thoroughly absent from the mouth when not eating. In a fight for survival, bacteria will eat almost any food source it can find. This diet is however limited to foods composed of sucrose, glucose, fructose, lactose, and cooked starches. When bacteria digest foods, they leech out a naturally occurring chemical known as lactic acid. This causes enamel to become especially vulnerable to damage.
Cavities typically manifest in places where plaque settles into the fissures and pits of teeth, cavities can also occur at the gum line. When a cavity penetrates past the soft dentin layer of the tooth into the nerve, pain is typically felt. Thankfully there is hope. By understanding how bacteria interact with tooth decay, you can prevent and even reverse some cavities. To start off, it is best to understand and few basic things about oral care.
Keep Up With Your Dental Hygiene
Brush, floss, and use mouthwash daily to maintain proper hygiene. Many dental professionals recommend flossing at least once a day to deter the growth of s.mutans and other bacteria. Mouthwash is also very useful in helping slow down a cavity. To get the most from mouthwash, it is best to purchase a fluoride containing brand. If possible, use the mouthwash right before you go to sleep. This will allow the mouthwash to better absorb and as a result, it will more effectively strengthen and protect enamel.
Fluoride Helps
Fluoride is ordinarily found in toothpaste and even in most tap water. Fluoride can even be found naturally in some meats such as fish and eggs. Fluoride has the potential to reverse cavity growth. If it is caught in the early stages of the problem, a cavity treated with fluoride can do just about a complete one-eighty. Assuming that you want to slow cavity growth and protect teeth from decay, it is particularly useful to apply fluoride.
Reduce The Sugary Foods
Junk foods and soda drinks should be greatly reduced to prevent further tooth decay. People with a sweet tooth should brush lightly as soon as possible after eating. If you chew gum, select a gum with Xylitol. Xylitol is particularly effective at creating an environment in which s.mutans and other bacteria cannot survive. This natural extract is immensely effective in slowing cavity development and it is also mildly sweet-tasting.
Licorice Root One less commonly used approach to oral care is licorice root. Licorice root is a natural antimicrobial. This means that licorice inhibits harmful bacteria from forming in the mouth. Many people also simply like the taste of licorice root, which is commonly purchased at health food stores or online.
Caring for cavities is quite easy. This essential hygiene is made a lot simpler with proper knowledge. Follow these tips and you too can put an end to cavity formation.
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What is a Waterpik?
While most people are familiar with and use the term Waterpik, this term actually pertains to the home oral care or hygiene device that is known as the dental water jet or the oral irrigator. What a dental water jet does is it utilizes a stream of pulsating water for getting rid of plaque and food debris that gets caught between individual teeth. Ideally, the gum line is targeted as well while one
uses the oral irrigator for the improvement of periodontal or gum health. Not surprisingly, a dentist, alongside an engineer, was
responsible for developing the dental water jet. This was all the way back in 1962 in Fort Collins, Colorado.
Benefits of using dental water jets
At present, over fifty scientific studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of oral irrigators for maintaining gum health. Light has also been shed on the effect of using dental water jets on those who suffer from gingivitis and diabetes. People with crowns and implants were also part of some studies. Recent research has shown that oral irrigators have an edge over dental floss when it comes to the alleviation of bleeding while cleaning the teeth. Results have also reflected that it is just as effective for maintaining
plaque reduction. Anecdotal evidence also points to the fact that oral irrigators have been demonstrated to be beneficial for the prevention and treatment of canker sores. This is because when one uses a dental water jet, the pulsation of the water through the soft tissues in the mouth helps keep the formation of canker sores at bay. For canker sores that have already formed, the low
pressure pulse that hits the sore is helpful for reducing its lifespan. For some people, the uses of dental water jets extends even to
other non-oral care related purposes such as jewelry cleaning.
Popular Waterpik brands on the market
Now that you are aware of the purpose of oral irrigators and how exactly they can benefit you, lets take a look at some of the most
reputable brands and models available:
1. Waterpik Waterflosser Ultra and Waterpik Traveler Flosser plus 12 Accessory Tips & Tip Storage CaseThis retails for $99.99 on Amazon and based on its 4.5/5 review, it seems that its price is well worth paying for. It guarantees the removal of plaque by up to 99.99 percent from the areas that are treated. This package includes 1 ultra Water Flosser, 1 traveler Water Flosser, 1 deluxe travel case, and 12 accessory tips.
2. RediBreeze Oral Irrigator is made in America by a veteran owned company. This oral irrigator has received a 4.5/5 as well on Amazon. It retails for only $29.95 exclusive of shipping. The RediBreeze Oral Irrigator works a little differently than other dental water jets on the market as it has a tool-free setup and comes with its own faucet. One can seamlessly switch between irrigation and a normal
faucet.
3. Waterpik Aquarius Professional Water Flosser is rated 4.4/5 on Amazon. This Waterpik model retails for $79.98 on Amazon. It is marketed as the easier and more effective way to floss. It promises the same benefits as number one. It is also touted as a suitable
choice for anyone with implants, periodontal pockets, or crowns. Caveat: the Aquarius Professional Water Flosser can only be used in North America.
4. Waterpik Waterflosser for Kids. It’s never too early to teach your kids proper oral care and what better way to start than with the Waterpik Waterflosser for Kids. It’s priced at $38.99 with free shipping on Amazon and it is designed for kids aged from 6 to 12. There are three pressure settings to choose from to accommodate children with sensitive teeth or gums. This comes with a two year warranty.
In all, Waterpiks are a very useful oral irrigation device that provides numerous benefits to oral hygiene. There are many products on the market that serve as excellent examples of waterpiks. If you want a better clean with less stress to gums than floss, an irrigating Waterpik may be the perfect device for you.
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Brushing teeth is an essential hygiene to have when combating streptococcus mutans and other dental germs. Some of the first toothbrushes for brushing teeth were created by Egyptians from leaves and twigs in early 3000 BC. Much of today’s dental knowledge has shown that brushing teeth accordingly can prevent gum disease and cavities. Despite the facts one must ask, is it really worth it to brush teeth? A toothbrush is a utensil that is often used to brush and clean teeth. Toothbrushes can be purchased with either soft or hard bristles. It is generally recommended that soft bristle toothbrushes be purchased as hard bristle toothbrushes can damage tooth enamel microscopically. Toothbrush bristles are commonly manufactured with synthetic fiber. Although there are natural bristle toothbrushes that can be purchased at either health food stores or online, at a fraction of the cost. Both soft synthetic fibers and natural bristle toothbrushes get the job done about the same so a natural bristle toothbrush is mostly for appeal and it being all natural.
Now that we have defined what a toothbrush is and does we will talk about toothbrush additive, or toothpaste . If you want to go the old-fashion route, water alone can surprisingly be used very effectively at dislodging plague and food leftovers from the surface of teeth. Another more commonly used toothpaste is commercial toothpaste. Most of the time toothpaste is appropriated because it tastes better than just water and because in it contains fluoride. This is added to help prevent tooth decay on a chemical level.
Another rather unknown alternative to toothpaste is toothpaste powder. What the heck is toothpaste powder? Toothpaste powder, also known as toothpowder is mostly used by those with sensitive teeth. Toothpowder is void of the synthetic, sodium lauryl sulphate. This chemical, frequently used in toothpaste for its sud-forming properties has its potential to be a skin irritant. Toothpowder can also change the PH of the mouth so that germs are less able to survive and re-mineralization more likely to occur. I have used one toothpowder before, it is called Christophers Tooth Powder. The powder method is not really my thing but hey if people try it, and it helps them to have better oral hygiene and a longer lasting smile so be it.
What happens if you don’t brush your teeth? When the common human eats the modern diet of refined sugars and flours bacteria are almost fertilized and form a thick layer of plaque containing over 600 different types of bacteria; some good, some bad. While these bacteria build a thick film, the germs on the very bottom of this bacterial dogpile cannot breathe. This forces them to go into anaerobic asphyxiation. This results in an acidic byproduct that literally eats through enamel. So weigh the pros and cons while you consider the fact that brushing teeth is scientifically proven to help prevent cavities and improve oral health.
Ignore your friends and they will go away, ignore your teeth and they will also go away. Teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but the warranty covered by nature becomes null when you introduce sugars and other junk foods into your mouth. It is widely accepted that these food are next to impossible to avoid which is why brushing has in fact become so important in modern times.
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You may have heard many different ways about how you should brush your teeth, and you may have wondered how it could be possible to get something as simple as brushing wrong. The reality is, there are certain steps that many people get wrong. Some of which may have created issues with their oral health. Shocking isn’t it? Well truth is, we’d all like to believe that we are doing things right when it comes to oral health, but the fact of the matter is we sometimes miss out on some very simple essentials. Which when avoided, can lead to serious dental problems. Here are a few things you can do to improve your oral health:
What is the right time to brush your teeth?
We all know that brushing teeth in the morning is a helpful habit to have. Once our morning brushing is done, we may sometimes feel that we are done for the day. Now here is a thinker! How many of us brush our teeth after meals? Not most of us, probably. Do you know that brushing your teeth after meals is way more important than that morning stroke of a brush? This is because what we eat gets stuck between the teeth and it is important to remove it before it starts to feed plaque colonies that break down the teeth. Thus, making brushing a habit before going to sleep ensures that you are taking the necessary steps to secure your oral health. Another
point to note here is that ideally it is best to also clean your mouth before eating .
Avoid Aerated Soft-drinks
Despite severe warnings, a lot of people still opt for harmful cola are you aware that soda contains sugar contents that cause bacteria to grow over twice as fast as they normally would? While you are not even done finishing with your drink, the acid in your mouth has reached the enamel and the cavity process has started. Colas are themselves filled with acids that begin this enamel-weakening process. Thus, they must be avoided at all cost. There are numerous research studies on the subject that highlight the effects and they should not be ignored if you are serious about oral health.
The Importance of Flossing
Most of us think that tooth care is complete after brushing, but flossing the teeth must not be compromised. Adequate flossing removes
plaque and food particles from the places where the typical brush cannot reach; this area between the teeth and under the gum line can only be reached with floss. When flossing it is best to take an eighteen inch of floss and wind it on both of the middle fingers to form a grip; now move it back and forth between the teeth to remove any food particles from here. Flossing does not need typically to be done more than twice. However, you should always make sure that you floss before going to bed.
Drinking Water is Essential
Now this is something not commonly heard of and yet it is true to every word. Drink lots and lots of water. Especially when you have had tea, coffee or any beverage with sugar and caffeine. A sip or two of fresh water is always helpful in these situations. What water does is that it takes the sugar elements from these beverages down to a level where they are not as harmful to our teeth. Water also allows the mouth to remain hydrated. This allows easy saliva formation and reduces the risk of debris causing plaque. Not drinking enough water may lead to dryness of the mouth and will allow bacteria to start harmful activities inside the mouth. Halitosis or bad breath is also a a very common result of dehydration.
Don’t Forget The Tongue
Research shows that over half of the bacteria in the mouth live on the tongue. Now that you have learned the importance flossing and brushing have on cleaning the teeth, you can begin to learn how much of a positive effect brushing on the tongue has. When one sleeps, the body’s digestive system is wide awake. During this process bacteria are steadily growing on the tongue. These bacteria are easily seen by naked eye once a layer is formed thick enough, and is the reason behind bad breath most of the time. Thus, a smooth scrubbing action with the help of a tongue cleaner is ideally what we should be doing everyday. A lot of gum problems and tooth decay could be prevented if we would just clean our tongue properly. Another lesser known consequence here is that an unclean tongue can affect your taste buds; so if you want your food to taste delicious make sure to always brush the tongue!
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You’ve come home from the dentist after having dental extraction. Now that you’re done you realize you’re not quite sure how to take care of your tooth socket. Well, there are many things you can do that will aid you in quick healing after dental surgery. This delicate process of healing will always take time. However, the time is well spent as it used to help the gums fully recover. The most important thing you should remember after a dental extraction is to protect the blood clot. Maintain gentle pressure on the socket by biting on a gauze sponge for about forty-five minutes and repeat as needed. If the socket is still bleeding you could try biting on a tea bag that had been wrapped in gauze. It is normal to have blood seep from a newly-formed socket twenty-four hours following a dental extraction. Key things to remember:
* Keep your head higher than any other part of your body.
* Sleep with several pillows to keep your head up.
* It is important that you do not get yourself over heated.
* Do not rinse during the first twenty four hours following a dental extraction. After twenty four hours you can then safely rinse with
warm salt water up to five times daily. The use of commercial mouthwashes during the healing period is typically not recommended. * * * Discomfort following dental surgery is normal to experience. If medication has been given or prescribed, you should take it as
instructed. If not, your choices are to take Tylenol, Motrin or Advil. Avoid Aspirin as it can cause bleeding.
* Your toothbrush can be carefully used in any area of the mouth not involved by the surgical procedures. This means that you can also
brush your tongue. Remember, a clean mouth heals faster.
* Having adequate food and fluid intake following surgery and/or general extractions is also very important. If you want to be extra
safe, it is advised to be on a soft or liquid diet such as an instant breakfast drink for the first 24 hours after surgery.
* Avoid all excessive activity and don’t pick at the surgical area.
* Avoid consuming liquids through a straw, alcoholic or carbonated beverages and refrain from smoking for as long as possible.
* Sutures, or stitches, will generally dissolve in ten days, if they bother you after these ten days, call your dentist.
* To control swelling, gently apply ice packs to the area for periods of twenty minutes on, ten minutes off. This procedure should
continue for the first twenty four hours following extraction only.
* If there is still swelling after three days or you have pain you need to call the doctor as it may mean that you have an infection.
However, an infection can be completely avoided if you remember to maintain a clean mouth following extraction.
* If you have any allergic reactions such as generalized rash, itching, etc., you should communicate this to the dentist immediately.
Do not hesitate to call your dentist if any questions arise. It is not unusual to have bone splinters appear weeks later. Sometimes there is a blue mark from the numbing shot that surfaces on the outer skin near the extraction site, this usually goes away in two or three weeks.
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Caries (cavities) are the most prevalent infectious disease of the oral cavity. Throughout the years, people from all over the world suffer from tooth decay and seek dental treatment to arrest its progression. To standardize the classification of caries between dentists, GV Black devised a system to name them in 1869. The nomenclature is mainly based on the location of caries. GV Black also published a series of papers that discuss how dental caries should be treated given the knowledge and materials available at that time.
Six Caries Classifications
1. Class I Caries – These type of caries are found on the occlusal (biting) surfaces of the posterior (back) teeth. Occlusal surfaces
have pits and fissures thus this type of caries is also known as pit-and-fissure caries. Pit-and-fissures as the name implies, are irregular surfaces of the teeth that resulted from imperfect coalescence of enamel during the development of the tooth crown. The bristles of toothbrushes often cannot effectively reach the bottom part of pits-and-fissures that’s why the bacteria stays there and will demineralize the tooth to create class I cavities. Detecting class I caries is sometimes a bit tricky. A “catch” after the dental explorer is passed on the occlusal surfaces, is an indication of a class I caries. However, deep fissures that do not have caries can also give the dentist the feel that there is a “catch” in the explorer. That’s why it takes good tactile sense and ocular inspection to
make a very accurate diagnosis.
2. Class II Caries – These are cavities that involve the occlusal surfaces and the proximal area (the area that is in contact with
another tooth) of an affected tooth. With this type of caries, more than one surface of the tooth is affected. Class II caries are also detected the same way as Class I caries although it is a bit challenging to pass the explorer on proximal areas. Bitewing radiographs are very helpful diagnostic aids. They tell the dentist if the proximal area has caries by way of presence of radioluscent areas.
3. Class III Caries – Caries that involve only the proximal area of anterior (front) teeth is classified as Class III Caries. This type
affects the smooth-surface of a tooth, or the surface that is facing the lips, the palate (for upper teeth) or the tongue (for lower teeth). Class III caries happens on areas that are not habitually cleaned and constantly covered with plaque. Class III caries are usually very easy to detect. They show areas of cavitation and brown-black discoloration that can be seen immediately. The explorer is run on the facial and lingual proximal surfaces to check for cavities.
4. Class IV Caries – If caries affects the proximal area and the incisal (cutting) surface of anterior teeth, then it is classified as Class IV. The process of detecting class IV caries is also the same as class III.
5. Class V Caries – Class V caries are those that are found near the gingival (gums) area of the tooth. It also affects a smooth surface. To detect class V caries, the explorer is run through the facial or lingual aspects of teeth from the cervical (near the gum) to the coronal (near the crown) surface. An indication that there is class V caries is a “catch”.
6. Class VI Caries – The tip of the cusps of posterior teeth can also have caries. If that is the case, they are classified as Class VI
caries. Note that unlike Class I caries that originate from pits-and-fissures, Class VI caries affects a smooth-surface. To check for Class VI caries, the explorer is passed through the cuspal inclines and tips.
Root Surface Caries
Root surface caries are not classified under any of the six classes. As the name implies, they occur on the cementum of the tooth that’s
always covered in plaque. Cementum being less mineralized than enamel, is more prone to demineralization caused by caries. Root surface caries progresses rapidly also because of the same reason, that’s why it should be treated immediately. It is prevalent in the older population that have experienced gingival recession.
Preventing caries
Plaque is the main etiologic agent of dental caries. It consists of bacteria like Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus that ferment sugars. As a result of this fermentation, these bacteria produce acids that lower the pH inside the mouth. The drop in pH is what causes tooth demineralization or caries to occur. That is why, eliminating plaque will prevent the progression of dental caries.
1. Maintain excellent oral hygiene – It has been shown that tooth brushing effectively gets rid of plaque inside the mouth. The bristles of the brush removes plaque inside pits and fissures of teeth and can even go in-between contact areas. Flossing should always follow tooth brushing. The thread of the floss that is inserted in between contact areas removes plaque that were not removed by toothbrush bristles. This prevents caries originating on the proximal areas of the teeth, along the gingival margins, as well as gum diseases. Regular professional scaling and polishing is also proven to disrupt plaque or calcular deposits (hard tartar build-up) with the use of dental instruments.
2. Modify diet – avoid eating foods that are sugary and starchy since they are ferment-able carbohydrates. Caries-causing bacteria inside the mouth use these carbohydrates for their metabolism and as a result, they release acids that cause the pH inside your mouth to drop to 5.5. This drop in pH is critical because it causes demineralization. One great way to check the pH of your mouth is by using pH strips, these can be easily found at pet stores for monitoring aquarium pH.
3. Remineralize teeth – Teeth are more resistant to caries when they are remineralized because of deposited fluorohydroxyapatite crystals on the surface. To remineralize teeth, they are exposed to low amounts of fluoride frequently. Rinsing with green tea daily
and increasing dairy consumption are the best ways to remineralize teeth.
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Why is it important to have good smelling breath?
It was in my early school years that I began to understand the value of fresh breath. There was a particular set of twins everyone seemed to talk about. These two guys had the worst morning breath imaginable. What made it worse was that they both had it and were totally oblivious to it. While they seemed like intelligent and good guys their bad breath was downright repelling. I mean don’t get me wrong, a person shouldn’t have to walk around smelling their own breath four times a day. However, pleasant smelling breath is a vital element if you want to project admirable qualities of yourself to people around you. Bad breath is one of the most common hygienic issues we are faced with today. In fact, for those who work in close proximity with people, having good breath is just about mandatory.
Bad breath could cause a person to avoid eye contact with colleagues, miss out on intimate connections and will possibly cause one to feel bad about themselves in general. Bad breath is often defined as unpleasant odor coming from the mouth. The textbook word for bad breath is halitosis. Nobody likes bad breath or halitosis, and most people actively battle with it. One fact remains that, “at least fifty percent of the adult population has admitted to having bad breath at one time or another, and just about everyone has it in the morning”. Ninety percent of foul breath is manifested by means of bacteria. Of this ninety percent, sixty percent of these bacteria are on the tongue.
Why do people get bad breath?
One answer to this says that bad breath has seven major causes that allow it to manifest; dry mouth, poor oral hygiene, food, smoking, infections, medications and, disease. Dry Mouth most commonly happens when we are sleeping hence the term “morning breath”. Poor oral hygiene results in a mouth full of bacterias and food particles that truly are the stuff bad breath is made of. Foods such as garlic and onion can create a particular food odor that emanates from the air we breathe and even from our sweat pores! Smoking is typically an accelerator for bad breath since it dries out the mouth. When the mouth is dry, saliva cannot do as good of a job at cleaning up around the place. Infections, as well as gum disease, mouth sores and tooth decay can also cause bad breath. Lastly, there are many medications and even vitamins, that can cause dry mouth. There are even some medications that can cause lingering odor on the breath in a similar fashion to eating garlic or onion. Always use your judgement to determine the source of the taste and/or smell of bad breath and take care of where it seems to be coming from. For example, If you find that your tongue has plaque on it you should brush on that area to remove plaque and reduce bad breath.
There are things you can do to help fight bad breath. Some of these include natural odor eliminating cures that also help to kill bacteria. Some well-known remedies that can help fight bad breath include: sage, mint, cloves, chlorophyll, baking soda, tea tree oil, fennel, parsley, lemon, apple cider vinegar, tea, cinnamon and yogurt.
* Sage has in it essential oils containing anti-bacterial properties that help annihilate the causes of bad breath.
* Mint is one of the best tasting in my honest opinion, of all natural quick fixes for bad breath. Two great ways to use mint are by chewing on fresh leaves and/or by purchasing and preparing mint tea.
* Cloves contain powerful antiseptic properties making them very useful at destroying odor-causing microorganisms in the mouth. * * * * * Chlorophyll is a very beneficial substance to both oral and overall health as it is both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. In fact, in 1950 a Dr. Howard Westcott discovered that a mere one hundred milligrams of chlorophyll daily can greatly help to counteract both body odors and foul breath.
* Baking Soda is very efficient at helping to cure bad breath as it favorably affects the PH of the mouth making it to where bacteria cannot survive.
* Tea Tree Oil can greatly prove useful in curbing the effects of bad breath as it contains anti-fungal and anti-septic properties. Tea Tree Oil is typically purchased in a liquid tincture and should always be diluted using only a few drops of oil per cup of water for use as mouthwash only. Never swallow Tea Tree oil as it is bad to consume it internally.
* Fennel Seed is typically used by either chewing one and one half teaspoons of fennel seed per day and/or by steeping fennel seed tea. Fennel seed is perfectly suited to curing bad breath as it gives a naturally occurring light crisp taste/scent.
* Parsley can help mask the odor of bad breath but does very little to diminish the amassing of erratic sulfur compounds.
* Lemons barely help to even weaken bad breath. Lemons should only ever be consumed when their juice is diluted in water. The reason for this being that lemon juice can be harmful as it has an acidic nature when in its undiluted form.
* Apple Cider Vinegar is used in a different manner than most bad breath cures, however it can prove to be very effective. With apple cider vinegar you will usually take one tablespoon right before and/or after a meal. The apple cider vinegar serves somewhat as a mild stomach acid and helps break down food. This helps with bad breath by preventing it before it starts. Apple cider vinegar alone can also function as an effective mouthwash to remove bad breath odors.
* Tea is a great antioxidant as well as a container or vehicle if you will of polyphenols. Polyphenols help put a stop to bad breath by disrupting bacterial growth naturally.
* Cinnamon is unique in that directly kills many known bacteria and it can even kill e. coli.
* Lastly, yogurt is great for bad breath when added to the diet. Yogurt has shown to remarkably decrease odorous compounds, specifically hydrogen sulfide by an astonishing eighty percent.
There are many cures that work great for bad breath, many can work for hours at a time. Eventually, most bad breath remedies tend to wear off. This is why it is very important to always be hydrated and to keep extra mints and xylitol gum around at times whenever you need them the most. Bad breath is something most everyone will have to struggle with at least a few times in their life. With a little experimenting and searching, it is possible for you to find your own perfect fresh breath remedy and to make bad breath a thing of the past.
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There are many ways to brush teeth, some methods are better than others. There may be times when you wonder, am I brushing correctly?. Let me tell you, brushing is a skill, it can be learned and perfected. Do you brush your teeth everyday and somehow manage to still get cavities? You may not be brushing correctly. If this is the case you should read on to learn an effective technique for brushing teeth.
There are five steps that are important to properly brushing your teeth:
* The first thing you should do is prepare. What is meant by this is you should obtain a toothbrush with soft bristles, brush softly, and buy quality toothpaste. A famous dentist once said, every tooth in a mans head is more valuable than a diamond.. What he meant by this is that brushing is more than just some mundane activity. Brushing is about protecting the the inner recesses of the mouth from dangerous bacteria who want to eat your food and leave corrosive acid as a by product! You must fight an ongoing battle against both plaque and sugars!
*After preparing, you should start by flossing. This will gently remove plaque from in between teeth in areas that a toothbrush cannot reach. After you floss, the plague will dislodge and move closer to the surface of teeth. This then allows it to be easily removed after brushing and rinsing.
*Now you should begin to brush, start at the back molars and move towards the front. It is very common for some people to start at the front and completely forget about the back molars. The average person has thirty-two teeth. If you do not know how many teeth you have, it is highly recommended that you count just so you will know. This will raise dental awareness and help to motivate you to brush each tooth every day.
*Once you have brushed your teeth you should then move on to your tongue and gums. Ever wonder what the stuff on your tongue is? It is a build-up of plaque that instead of being on teeth, is on the tongue. This is a breeding ground for many plaque organisms to thrive on. For this reason, it is of utmost importance that you brush the tongue. After brushing you should move on to your gums to remove any plaque that may be present. You should then massage your gums with the toothbrush, this helps to promote gum health by stimulating blood flow.
*Finally, you should rinse. The purpose of rinsing is to remove all the debris left behind from flossing and brushing. It is recommended that you rinse two to three times to make sure you get everything. Water will work just fine for rinsing, though if you opt for mouthwash that is okay as well.
When deciding on toothpaste, choose high quality over low cost generics. When deciding on a toothbrush, you should consider choosing one with soft bristles. The reason for this being that hard bristles can sometimes damage enamel. After you have finished with these steps; flossing, brushing and rinsing. You should feel your teeth as being smooth and very clean. After brushing the tongue you may even be able to taste foods better. With so many sugars and refined carbs in today’s food, it is near impossible to avoid plaque. The best way to combat plaque is to implement a thorough brushing technique that will work efficiently at removing it from the surface of teeth.
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Dentistry is the part of medicine that pertains to developing, preventing and treating disease within the mouth. The need for dental care has been around for a long time. For as long as human beings have had cavities there has been a need for dentistry.
Toothbrushes started with the ancient Chinese. They began using the necks of pigs cured in cold temperature to invent toothbrushes utilizing the thick boar hair as bristles. Some of the first persons to promote toothbrushes were French dentists in the early eighteenth and seventeenth centuries. At around 500 B.C., the Chinese and eastern Indians began experimenting with the first toothpastes. Although modern day toothpaste that we are commonly accustomed to wasn’t introduced until the 1800’s. There is evidence of false teeth going back as far as 700 BC, these false teeth were typically made from ivory and bone by the Etruscans. Evidence states that around 2700 B.C. ancient Chinese experimented with the practice of acupuncture to treat tooth pain.
The year 1815 marks a time in which dentist Levi Parmly was the first to publicly encourage the flossing of teeth. Back then flossing was usually done with pieces of silk thread. Levi Parmly is credited as being the original inventor of dental floss. On another note, a dentist known simple as ‘Peabody’was the first to add soap as an ingredient for toothpaste around 1824. Over the many years of dentistry, many types of materials have been used to fill cavities. Some of these include stone chips, naturally occurring gums and even certain types of metals.
The year 1848 was the year a man known as Arculanus suggested using gold-leaf fillings instead of these traditionally used fillers .
Around the 1850’s a man named John Harris became the first to add chalk to toothpaste (we all hate you John Harris). Chalk is now known to be abrasive and to cause more harm to enamel than good.
In 1857, Dr. Hiram N. Wadsworth was the first American to put a patent on the toothbrush. After 1885, multiple American corporations started to produce toothbrushes in mass quantities.
In January of 1875 the first electric dental drill was patented by a man know as George Green.
In 1882 unwaxed silk floss was produced for home usage by the Codman and Shurtleft company. Carl Koller was the first to use Cocaine as an anesthetic for dentistry sometime around 1884.
In 1892 the collapsible toothpaste tube that we now commonly see on supermarket shelves was created by a Dr.Washington Sheffield.
The Johnson and Johnson company, patented their first line of dental floss in 1898.
Novocain replaced the previously used Cocaine in 1905 after a multitude of researchers concluded that it may prove more suitable to formulate a non-addictive numbing solution. This compound isolation is credited to Alfred Einkorn, a German Chemist.
Most Americans didn’t internalize the routine of brushing teeth until army soldiers from World War II arrived home with the strict
habit of brushing. These learned hygienes were then passed to family members who would then take this habit and pass it on to other family members.
In was in the year of 1938 when the very first nylon bristle toothbrush was commercially launched by Dupont. This was however after the Prophylactic brush was created by the Florence Manufacturing company of Massachusetts. For this reason, Dupont is debatably the first to sell toothbrushes in a box.
In 1939 the first electric toothbrush was manufactured and developed in Switzerland. A variation of this device known as the ‘Broxodent’, was the first American electric toothbrush marketed around the 1960’s by a company known as Squibb.
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Having dental insurance can be very convenient especially if you are suffering from toothache. Just because you have a toothache, that does not mean you have to suffer. Many people who have been in your situation have found ways to get the help they need to feel better.
Let’s look at some of the possible reasons behind a toothache. A toothache can first be caused by a sensitive tooth that is responding to hot, cold, sweet or bitter foods. Another possible cause is that a cavity has gotten bigger and needs a filling. A tooth with an exposed root will need either a root canal or surgical removal to ultimately fix the problem. Occasionally, a sinus infection can mimic a toothache due to nerve endings firing off around the teeth. This may falsely cause you to think there is something seriously wrong with your tooth.
If you’ve had recent cold symptoms that have not fully cleared up, gently press below your cheekbones around your sinus cavities for sensitivity. If you feel pressure or pain, you may be experiencing a sinus infection. Sinus infections can be notorious for sending pressure down to the nerve endings around the teeth. Using a humidifier, a saline rinse, and/or over the counter pain reliever may clear things up. For a tooth that is aching due to sensitivity, one of the cheapest and easiest fixes is to purchase a soft-bristled toothbrush and to use a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. Avoid biting down on sugary foods, especially with sensitive teeth. If hot or cold bothers you, remember to make the temperature of your food just right before consuming it.
If you can actually see the problem, such as an abscessed tooth or a cavity that has gotten out of control, over the counter pain medication will not fix the underlying problem. For a toothache such as this, you can call your local Health Department for your county and ask them if they can give you a list of the local dental schools that may need patients to work on. They may also have other resources for you that you are totally unaware of. Most Health Departments also have an in-house Dentist who may have ideas for you that might help, or offer to see you for a minimal fee, regardless of the fact you have no insurance.
Many local schools that have a Dental Program will often offer their services for very cheap or free since the work will be done by students with seasoned Dentists and professors overseeing their work. While this might sound scary at first, remember, these students have studied the same as a Dentist has and are now doing hands-on work. This can be a great alternative to get dental work done, especially if you have a toothache and no insurance. This may require phone calls, driving a longer distance than you normally would, and possibly getting up earlier than you typically would to be seen. It may also even involve waiting in a line with other people who also have a toothache. Regardless of those possibilities, it is often well worth it to relieve one’s self from the pains of toothache.
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When a tooth is removed, a blood clot will form where it used to be. The clot is a defense mechanism of the body that is meant to help protect and heal the extraction site. Sometimes, this clot can dissolve or become dislodged. This will expose the bone and nerve to food, fluids, air, and anything else that enters the mouth. This condition is what is commonly referred to as dry socket.
Dry Socket, also known as alveolar osteitis, is a painful condition that affects an estimated 2% to 5% of people that undergo tooth extraction. It is usually determined by an intense pain and the absence of a blood clot at the extraction site. Dry Socket can last up to five or six days and could lead to infection if not treated properly. For this reason it is vital to avoid toxins and maintain good dental hygiene to avoid dry socket.
Dry socket can be caused by a variety of reasons. Some of these include smoking, birth control, and excess trauma during extraction. First, it is important that you do not smoke after having a tooth extraction. After surgery, the gum tissue is in a sensitive state and just beginning to heal. For this reason, smoke from cigarettes or other herbs can quickly dry out and dislodge a blood blot. Secondly, studies have shown that women on birth control have a 31% incidence of dry socket. This incidence occurs during the first twenty-two days of the menstrual cycle. This is because many birth control pills have an effect that causes a decrease in the bloods ability to clot. Because of this, women on the pill should schedule tooth extractions between days 23 and 28 of their cycle to greatly reduce the chances of getting dry socket. Lastly, if there is excess trauma during extraction this can cause a blood clot to take longer to form. In this case, it is especially important to maintain good hygiene and avoid any contact with the clot to ensure a thorough healing.
There are a few ways to avoid getting dry socket. Some of these include avoiding toxins, leaving the clot intact and avoiding air pressure in the mouth. First, you should avoid all toxins. Some common toxins are smoke, alcohol, snuff/dip and anything else that could dislodge or dissolve a clot. Second, it is best to leave the clot alone as much as possible. Do not brush around the clot or rinse your mouth for around 24 to 48 hours to ensure a thorough healing. Lastly, you should avoid air pressure within the mouth. This could include anything from drawing smoke from a cigarette to sipping liquids through a straw. The reason for this is to avoid anything that may dislodge the clot or causing it to take longer to heal.
No matter what the cause, dry socket is a painful condition that can and should be avoided at all costs. If you’ve just had a tooth pulled, it is important that you take care of the blood clot by avoiding toxins and keeping your mouth clean. Use these tips and you will be sure to have a quick and painless healing after your next dental extraction.
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Dentistry is an interesting field; it is both a science and an art. It deals with the esthetics, physiology and pathology of the oral cavity. In other words, it is the professional care and knowledge of the teeth, gums, tongue, and cheek. To become a Dentist, one should ideally have an eye for esthetics through symmetry, tooth shade, and harmony of the teeth and smile. One should ideally have knowledge on what is both normal and healthy as opposed to abnormalities and diseases. In short, the dental profession involves the proper diagnosis, treatment and prevention of oral disease. In order to become a dentist, one must undergo intensive training and studying. On average, in the U. S, it takes eight years to complete the courses required to become a dentist. After completing a dental bachelors degree, one can opt to take continual studies in either dental specializations or post-doctoral trainings.
Getting Started on the road to becoming a Dentist – Bachelors Degree
Before becoming eligible to become a Dentist, a student must first earn a bachelors degree in college. This usually takes two to four years, depending on what course the student takes. It is advised to take a health related course such as biology or a pre-dental program. Choosing a course of study is important because some dental schools require specific courses before admission.
Dental Degree
In order to get into dental school, a student must first pass the dental admissions test. This test can be taken before or after completing the bachelors degree. It can take up to four years to earn a dental degree. During the first two years the student is taught the basics of anatomy, histology, physiology and pathology; their dexterity is then honed in a controlled setting. The last two years are hands on clinical practice under close supervision of a licensed dentist.
Licensure Examination
Before a dental graduate can practice their profession, they will have to pass a dental licensure examination administered by their state. The exam is composed of two parts: written and practical. The applicant must pass both parts before obtaining their license.
Post-Doctoral Specializations
After completing a dental degree, the student is now a general dentist. They are capable of performing a variety of dental treatments such as crowns, bridges, dentures, restorations, and teeth cleaning. They could even take a specialization for any one of these particular fields. If a dentist decides to follow through with specialization, they will have to gain an in-depth and thorough knowledge on that particular field. A certificate of completion and recognition is thus given to dentists who have successfully completed their post-doctoral trainings.
Most common post-doctoral specializations
* Orthodontists – An orthodontist specializes in diagnosis and treatment of misaligned and crowded teeth. A dentist must study tooth movement and facial development for an additional three to five years before they can call themselves orthodontists.
*Periodontists – A periodontist specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of gum disease. This field of dentistry specializes in understanding the supporting structure around the tooth, gums and bone. In order to become a periodontist, one will have to study an additional three years following their dental degree.
*Dental Surgeon – A dental surgeon performs complicated tooth extractions, placements of dental implants, and surgical operations of the oral maxillofacial area. This often includes surgical removal of benign and malignant tumors along the head and neck and surgical treatment of temporo-mandibular joint problems. In order to be a dental surgeon an additional four to seven years of study at a hospital is needed. During these years the perspective dental surgeon will receive hands on training in anesthesiology, emergency medicine and plastic surgery.
* Endodontist – An endodontist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disease involving the pulp and the tooth’s nerve and blood vessels. It is their duty to clean, shape and fill canals of their dental patients. To become an endodontist, a qualified dentist must study and train another two to three years specializing as an endodontist.
*Prosthodontist
*A prosthodontist restores extracted and missing teeth through alteration of dentures or artificial teeth. The dentures can be fixed, removable, complete or partial. Prosthodontists deal largely with esthetics and harmony of dentures with other oral structures. They are also required to study stability and retention of dentures to prevent dislodgment during function. To become a prosthodontist, a qualified dentist will have to study an additional two to three years in this specialization.
* Pedodontist – A pedodontist is also known as a pediatric dentist. They perform preventive and comprehensive dental treatment on children, from infancy to teenage years. Teeth of the young patient are a lot different compared to adult teeth. The attitude of the child patient is also different. For these reasons a specialized dentist is needed when treating children.
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